By Tanyaradzwa Mombeshora
Patsime Trust recently held a Theatre for Advocacy workshop aimed at empowering young people aged 18 to 35.
With support from the International Falcon Movement – Socialist Educational International, the workshop provided a platform for discussing critical social issues such as LGBTQI+ rights, mental health, and sexual harassment.
Shingirai Manyengavana, the workshop coordinator, emphasized the significance of these workshops in fostering dialogue within communities. He said:
<blockquote>
Workshops of this nature are crucial because they create a space for young people to use their talents as a tool for communication.
</blockquote>
Jasen Mphepo, the director of Patsime Trust, also spoke at the event, highlighting the organization’s commitment to community change.
He encouraged participants to embrace their voices for positive impact, saying, “Your voice matters; together, we can make a difference in our communities.”
Farirai, one of the workshop facilitators, led a discussion on the role of theatre in raising awareness and inspiring social change.
He explained the importance of understanding issues like sexual harassment and its root causes. Said Farirai:
<blockquote>
Theatre can shine a light on these important topics and help us connect with each other.
</blockquote>
Following the discussions, participants engaged in a brainstorming session, forming groups to create short theatre presentations addressing pressing issues.
<img alt="" class="alignnone wp-image-289999 size-full" decoding="async" height="1536" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 2304px) 100vw, 2304px" src="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Patsime-Trust-Hosts-Theatre-For-Advocacy-Workshop-2.jpeg" srcset="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Patsime-Trust-Hosts-Theatre-For-Advocacy-Workshop-2.jpeg 2304w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Patsime-Trust-Hosts-Theatre-For-Advocacy-Workshop-2-300x200.jpeg 300w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Patsime-Trust-Hosts-Theatre-For-Advocacy-Workshop-2-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Patsime-Trust-Hosts-Theatre-For-Advocacy-Workshop-2-768x512.jpeg 768w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Patsime-Trust-Hosts-Theatre-For-Advocacy-Workshop-2-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Patsime-Trust-Hosts-Theatre-For-Advocacy-Workshop-2-2048x1365.jpeg 2048w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Patsime-Trust-Hosts-Theatre-For-Advocacy-Workshop-2-1320x880.jpeg 1320w" width="2304"/>
This collaborative effort allowed them to explore their ideas creatively and express their perspectives through performance.
The workshop was a success, bringing together young voices to advocate for change and understanding in their communities.

Pindula News

Patsime Trust had a workshop for young people to talk about important issues like LGBTQI+ rights, mental health, and sexual harassment. They used theatre to discuss and raise awareness. They encouraged young people to use their voices to make a difference. Participants worked together to create short plays about these topics. The workshop helped them be creative and share their ideas with others. It was a successful event that brought young voices together to speak up and create positive change in their communities.

Patsime Trust Hosts Theatre For Advocacy Workshop

Patsimeredu Trust recently launched a round table discussion aimed at addressing the mental health challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic within Zimbabwean communities.
The project focuses on research, community engagement, and advocacy to promote mental well-being and digital literacy among young people.
In partnership with IFM-SEI and Youth Policy Labs, the initiative has equipped participants with essential research skills, fostering a deeper understanding of mental health issues across various cultural contexts.
A significant event, the National Co-Design Meeting, was held at Nyaradzo Group of companies, bringing together youth from diverse backgrounds to discuss the pandemic’s impact on mental health.
Tapiwanashe Henry Mutekede, the E-mpACT Project Zimbabwe Coordinator, emphasized the urgency 
of addressing these mental health challenges. Said Mutekede:
<blockquote>
We are committed to tackling the mental health crisis exacerbated by the pandemic. Our project not only aims to provide immediate support but also to empower communities with knowledge and resources for long-term well-being.
</blockquote>
The project emphasizes enhancing digital literacy to ensure individuals can readily access essential 
mental health resources online.
Mutekede highlighted the types of support and interventions that the project will provide for vulnerable populations impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. He said:
<blockquote>
The project aims to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health through nationwide awareness campaigns that will educate communities about mental health issues and available support services.
</blockquote>
John Munetsi who attended the mental health discussion shared his experiences about the project. Said Munetsi:
<blockquote>
We are not only receiving entertainment but we are also being equipped with knowledge and skill to convey crucial information to beneficiaries within the communities we come from.
</blockquote>
The paper outlines strategies to strengthen mental health services, raise awareness, and support 
vulnerable populations while integrating mental health considerations into national emergency planning.
This story was contributed by Shingirai Manyengavana.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Patsime Trust started a project to help people in Zimbabwe with mental health problems because of COVID-19. They are working with young people to do research, talk to communities, and promote digital skills. They had a big meeting with young people from different backgrounds to talk about how the pandemic is affecting mental health. The project wants to give support now and also help communities in the long run. They will educate people about mental health and provide resources online. They also want to reduce the stigma around mental health. The project aims to improve mental health services and help those most affected by the pandemic.

Patsime Trust Latest News

Latest Jobs